Originally Posted by
ftrichard
For Ambassador, in addition to the 100 nights, you must have a spend of USD20k showing on your account. This means you'd have to spend around £200 a night for each of your 88 nights *and* take out the Amex to get the additional 15 nights. I've never been Ambassador. If you will have the spend then the Amex is quite easy to get but personally I wouldn't bother as Amex is terribly difficult to use because many places don't take it and they charge a terrible 3% for foreign purchases whereas I am charged 0% using my Curve card abroad.
On the other hand, Dubai certainly will get you excellent points redemptions and lounge experiences. Also, you should check out the once-in-a-lifetime aspirational desert resort Al Maha Dubai if you've really got points to burn on hotels you'd never pay for.
Lots to read in the individual hotel threads for the Bonvoy Dubai properties. You'll have a proper elite experience there.
The spend probably wouldn't be a problem as during the summer months the hotel was charging crazy amount ITRO £350-400 a night, I'll be glad to never see those prices again! I'll head over and have a look at the Dubai properties, that Al Maha looks stunning, probably a bit outside my points range for a 5 night stay though! (Currently on just over 100k).
Originally Posted by
goodeats21
Less about status, but if you are staying 12-15 nights a month consistently at the same hotel, be sure to chat up front desk staff / management so they get to know you. As a frequent guest at the same hotel, you should be in place for some (informal) favors. If you fancy a certain room / type, make sure they are aware. If you need an early check in one trip, give them some notice and they will likely accommodate. Things like that.
Also make sure you sign up for bonus promotions as available. Under "My promotions" in your on-line account.
They are very friendly and quite often give me free parking if I require which is nice. I've had a look at the promos and signed up for a 2k points per stay one, I know you should never complain about anything that's 'free' but it left a bit to be desired when i saw it....
